Volvo U21 invitational: Indian women's hockey team seek first win

The Indian women’s hockey team. [Image credits: Hockey India]

Breda (The Netherlands), July 23 (IANS)

India will seek their first victory in women's Volvo International Under-21 hockey tournament when they face New Zealand here on Friday. India lost their first match 0-1 against the hosts, then fought back to force a 4-4 draw against Germany.

But all their good work was undone in a 2-4 loss against China on Wednesday. India have just a point after the first three matches.

India will again look for inspiration from their ace striker Rani Rampal, who is also captaining them in this six-nation tournament.

India last played against New Zealand last year in a six match series wherein both the teams drew three matches, winning once and losing twice.

Speaking about the crucial crucial match, chief coach Mathias Ahrens said, “We have to look ahead and aim to win our match against New Zealand tomorrow. The team will have to convert the penalty corners which will help them out the pressure on the opponents. Our defence even has to come out strong and ensure that we do not give away easy goals.”

The Volvo Invitational U-21 Tournament 2015 will stretch from July 18-26 here.